Key Facts & Information

Overview

When you hear the word chemicals, you might think of laboratories and scientists in white coats; but actually, chemicals are all around you, as well as inside of you. Everything in the world is made up of chemicals, also known as matter, or stuff that takes up space. Chemistry is the study of matter—what it is made of, how it behaves, its structure and properties, and how it changes during chemical reactions. Chemistry teachers are the people who help students understand this physical world, from the reactions within our own bodies to how soaps and detergents work and why egg proteins can keep a cookie from crumbling. They prepare the next generation of scientists and engineers, including all healthcare professionals. They also help also students develop scientific literacy.

Key Requirements

Enthusiasm for science and chemistry, patience, a positive attitude, observant, with a desire to work with young students and outstanding communication skills

Read this interview with Myra Thayer to understand why teaching high school chemistry requires you to be as much as people-person as a scientist.

In this article, you'll meet Richard Goodman, an award-winning high school chemistry teacher who works hard to make chemistry "the coolest thing."

Related Occupations

Health educators

Graduate teaching assistants

Vocational education teachers, postsecondary

Elementary school teachers, except special education

Instructional coordinators

Teacher assistants

Source: O*Net

Training, Other Qualifications

The traditional route to becoming a public school teacher involves completing a bachelor's degree from a teacher education program and then obtaining a license. However, most states now offer alternative routes to licensure for those who have a college degree in other fields. Private school teachers do not have to be licensed, but might still need a bachelor's degree.

Education and Training

Typically, a bachelor's degree in chemistry, and certification to teach in high school, sometimes referred to as a single-subject certification, is necessary for teaching chemistry. These two requisites, as well as a semester of student-teaching, are usually completed simultaneously. Licensing is required by all states to teach in the public school system; however, it is not needed for private schools. Because requirements vary, contact the Board of Education within the state in which you want to teach.

Other Qualifications

In addition to being knowledgeable about chemistry and science, teachers must have the ability to communicate, inspire trust and confidence, and motivate students, as well as to understand the students' educational and emotional needs. Additional skills necessary for success as a chemistry teacher are creative thinking, problem solving, and strong time-management skills.

High school chemistry teachers must have excellent classroom management skills and be able to facilitate learning amongst a wide range of learners. The ability to multi-task is essential.

Teachers must be able to recognize and respond to individual and cultural differences in students, and employ different teaching methods that will result in higher student achievement. They should be organized, dependable, patient, and creative. Teachers also must be able to work cooperatively and communicate effectively with other teachers, support staff, parents, and members of the community. Private schools associated with religious institutions desire candidates who share the values that are important to the institution.

Nature of the Work

Watch this video, of Chemistry teacher Dr. Lew Davis who believes that a little bit of theatrics combined with chemistry demonstrations helps students start
asking questions and get excited about chemistry. See how he becomes his alter ego Dr. Death and engages students with his chemistry show.

A chemistry teacher presents concepts that are related to chemistry to high school students in public or private schools.

The majority of a chemistry teacher's time is spent with students in the classroom, with a smaller percentage spent in planning periods and meetings with other staff and parents. The duties of a chemistry teacher include creating lesson plans; preparing and delivering lectures; creating and supervising laboratory activities for students; evaluating student performance; maintaining classroom records; meeting with parents, teachers, and other professionals; and participating in campus events. They may use a variety of teaching techniques, including the use of textbooks, white boards, technology integration, and hands-on materials.

Depending upon the expectations of the employing school, additional research, supervisory, or organizational duties might also be required of a chemistry teacher. Chemistry teachers are generally expected to participate in ongoing professional development and to stay informed about developments in their field.

Work Environment

Seeing students develop new skills and gain an appreciation for knowledge and learning can be very rewarding. However, teaching can be frustrating when one is dealing with unmotivated or disrespectful students. Occasionally, teachers must cope with unruly behavior and violence in the schools. Teachers might experience stress when dealing with large classes, heavy workloads, or old schools that are run down and lack modern amenities. Accountability standards also might increase stress levels, with teachers expected to produce students who are able to exhibit a satisfactory performance on standardized tests in core subjects. Many teachers, particularly in public schools, also are frustrated by the lack of control they have over what they are required to teach.

Teachers in private schools generally enjoy smaller class sizes and more control over establishing the curriculum, and setting standards for performance and discipline. Their students also tend to be more motivated, since private schools can be selective in their admissions processes.

Teachers are sometimes isolated from their colleagues because they work alone in a classroom of students. However, some schools allow teachers to work in teams and with mentors, to enhance their professional development.

Many teachers work more than 40 hours a week, including school duties performed outside the classroom. Most teachers work the traditional 10-month school year, with a 2-month vacation during the summer. During the vacation break, those on the 10-month schedule might teach in summer sessions, take other jobs, travel, or pursue personal interests. Many enroll in college courses or workshops to continue their education. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 8 weeks, are on vacation for 1 week, and have a 5-week midwinter break.

Most states have tenure laws that prevent public school teachers from being fired without just cause and due process. Teachers may obtain tenure after they have satisfactorily completed a probationary period of teaching, normally three years. Tenure does not absolutely guarantee a job, but it does provide some security.

On the Job

Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.

Instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.

Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects and communicate those objectives to students.

You can find this page online at: http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-engineering-careers/earth-physical-sciences/chemistry-teacher

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